At some point, everyone deals with a blocked drain. Unfortunately, many issues may cause this problem.
If you believe you are dealing with a blocked drain, you may be able to clear it on your own. Knowing what to do and what methods to try will help you get your drain flowing smoothly once again.
How to Clear a Blocked Drain
Some of the most effective ways to clear a blocked drain in your home are highlighted here.
Boiling water
Boiling water can be extremely effective when clearing a blocked drain if the blockage is caused by conditioner, grease, or another type of toiletry. That’s because all these substances have a relatively low melting point. The high heat helps to break them up and get things moving again. You can boil a kettle and then pour the hot water into the drain to shift the blockage.
Natural cleaners
Using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide may also do the trick. First, flush the drain with hot water, followed by baking soda and then hydrogen peroxide. Let the mixture sit for around 10 minutes, then add more hot water.
Caustic cleaners
Using store-bought cleaners is another option. These easily dissolve oil, fat, and grease, making the product ideal for tougher blockages.
Plunger
If the blockage is local, a plunger may effectively get it to move. Use the plunger over the drain the same way you would in a toilet.
DIY drain snake
It is possible to make a drain snake out of any type of thin metal wire, like a coat hanger. Make sure to leave a slight hook at the bottom of the snake when you put it into the drain to fish out the clog.
Plumbers drain snake
A plumber’s drain snake is a more advanced tool and can get further into the pipes to remove deeper blockages. In most cases, calling a plumber for help with this is recommended.
CCTV
If the snake doesn’t work, CCTV can find the blockage, identify what it is, and let you know how serious it is. With this, a small camera is sent into the pipe on the end of a tool. Once the severity of the clog is known, a plan to remove it can be formed.
Hydro-Jet
With this, sharp bursts of water are used for removing debris or other substances from your pipes. In some cases, this method is used after other blockage removal techniques.
Excavation
If you are dealing with a severe blockage, excavation may be required. With this, some of the pipes are removed and replaced.
Pipe Relining
When pipes are damaged due to an ongoing blockage, using pipe relining is recommended. It’s an effective alternative to replacing the pipes.
If you are dealing with a blockage you can’t seem to clear, one of the best things you can do is to call a licensed plumber. The professionals can use the right removal method and get things flowing smoothly once again.